It's a wonderful time of the year. Who doesn't enjoy the presence of the Christmas Spirit? But oh, how sadness is magnified in its absence. But what is "IT"?

I suppose in its simplest manifestation, 'IT' is childlike wonder, excitement and expectation of good things about to happen.

"IT" is a sense of 'community'. The awareness of belonging and overflowing love that causes an intense desire to share with others; to bring them a moment of happiness.

"IT" is heightened senses attuned to the world around us. Colors seem brighter and the light more brilliant. Every scent wafting across the air kindles a memory. Sounds become melodies to our ears and every taste is pleasant to our pallets. Our contact with family and friends has a bit more hugging; even strangers may be touched more often in an effort to communicate caring.

All around one the world glistens and sparkles: the night sky, a child's eyes; new-fallen
snow or the frost below. Decorations of every kind, a tree of pinesuch wonders to behold.

The greatest Manifestation of the Christmas Spirit was brought forth over 2000 years ago and laid in a manger. A great star illumined the place of His birth, all the while choirs of angels proclaimed, "Peace on Earth" in the heavens. They called His name, "Emmanuel", which meant, "God with Us"! The baby was wrapped in swaddling cloth and He rested in a bed of straw. Around Him was the fragrance of hay and livestock.

On that which we acknowledge as the first Christmas, God poured forth on all mankind His overflowing love. He gave the unending song of hope to the angel choirs, and provided the means through which would come eternal peace with God and man. We call Him Jesus.

What is Christmas Spirit? "IT" is poured out Love that lives in and through Him. Because of Jesus, the spirit of Christmas is with us and in us 365 days a year, always to be experiencedalways to be shared.

I am a freelance writer and a retired nurse. I have 3 grown sons, 2 daughters-in-love and 5 grandchildren. My husband and I will celebrate our 48th anniversary in '08'. I became serious about writing after my retirement. My work has only been published on-line thus far.